Mixed Signals, the provider of digital content monitoring solutions, is showcasing the upgraded audio monitoring capabilities of its Sentry digital content monitoring solution at an upcoming industry event. 

Mixed Signals worked with cable television providers to create a solution that enables cable operators to identify audio volume issues in programming and commercials, giving them the information necessary to fix volume changes during channel changes and when commercials run.

The company offers comprehensive monitoring solutions to support advanced digital networks and provides quality experience for subscribers, increase uptime and reduce operational expenditures.

The Mixed Signals Sentry now supports the ITU-R BS.1770 audio specification for measuring the loudness of video programs. As loud commercials have become problematic, proposed legislation is now before Congress that would require video service providers to address this pressing issue. The Commercial Advertising Loudness Mitigation, or “CALM,” Act would require video service providers to ensure that commercials not be any louder than the average volume of the programs they accompany.

“We understand the irritation from both cable operators as well as subscribers when it comes to loud commercials interrupting an otherwise enjoyable television experience – which is why we have upgraded Sentry to help solve this frustration, especially as new legislation regarding this issue is progressing quickly,” Eric Conley, CEO of Mixed Signals, said.

“Our number one priority is to make sure cable operators have the tools they need to catch these service-affecting issues, which is why Sentry’s upgrade enables operators to cost-effectively monitor their entire programming line-up in a scalable way that identifies loudness issues immediately when they occur,” Conley added.

Developed by the International Telecommunications Union, or “ITU,” the BS.1770 specification is expected to be adopted by the Advanced Television Systems Committee in the United States, and it will lead to its use by broadcasters and then cable and other multi-channel video service providers. Service providers with Sentrys already deployed in their networks can add support for BS.1770 via a software upgrade.

In related news, Mixed Signals announced that Sentry has received a coveted Four Diamond ranking in Broadband Gear Report’s 2009 Diamond Technology Reviews, which recognize the most advanced products and solutions for the cable television industry. This marks the third consecutive year that Sentry has received four or more Diamonds in this respected product reviews program.